Yes, living in Italy with your spouse shortens the process for obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage, reducing the required marriage duration.
Yes, living in Italy with your spouse can shorten the process for obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage. The primary benefit of residing in Italy is that the required duration of marriage is reduced, making you eligible to apply for citizenship more quickly. Here's how living in Italy impacts the application process:
1. Marriage Duration Requirement:
The duration of your marriage affects when you can apply for citizenship:
- 2 years of marriage if residing in Italy.
- 3 years of marriage if living abroad.
If you live in Italy, you only need to have been married for 2 years before applying. In contrast, if you are living abroad, the required duration is 3 years. If you have children together, the duration is halved, meaning 1 year of marriage in Italy or 1.5 years abroad.
2. Language Proficiency Requirement:
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the Italian language at a B1 level (intermediate). This is a requirement for everyone applying for citizenship by marriage, regardless of where they live. You will need to provide proof of your language skills through a recognized certificate or test.
3. Proof of Relationship Stability:
In Italy, you will need to provide documentation showing that your marriage is ongoing and genuine. This can include:
- Joint financial records (bank accounts, tax returns).
- Proof of cohabitation (lease agreements, utility bills).
- Photographs or affidavits supporting the authenticity of your relationship.
Living in Italy makes it easier to provide this proof, as you can document your integration into the country and the stability of your relationship.
4. Application Process Through the Municipality:
If you live in Italy, you will submit your citizenship application through the local municipality (Comune) rather than through an Italian consulate. This can make the application process more direct, as the municipality will handle your paperwork and verify your eligibility. Once your documents are reviewed, your case will be forwarded to the Ministry of the Interior for final approval.
5. Processing Time:
The processing time for Italian citizenship by marriage is typically up to 2 years, regardless of whether you live in Italy or abroad. However, living in Italy may speed up the process, as local authorities may be able to verify your application and documents more efficiently. Be prepared for delays depending on the workload of the authorities.
Conclusion:
Living in Italy with your spouse can shorten the process for obtaining Italian citizenship by marriage by reducing the required marriage duration to 2 years. Additionally, living in Italy may help you provide better proof of relationship stability and make the application process smoother. By meeting all the requirements, including language proficiency, you can apply for citizenship more quickly while living in Italy.